Nocturne Live 2022 - David Gray, James Morrison and Nerina Pallot - Live Review
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
The second night of Nocturne Live 2022 brought a heartfelt and emotional evening to the Great Court at Blenheim Palace. With a lineup featuring Nerina Pallot, James Morrison, and David Gray celebrating the 20th anniversary of his iconic White Ladder album, the stage was set for a night of soaring vocals, introspective lyrics, and unforgettable moments. As the sun dipped behind the palace, the crowd settled in for a journey through some of the most beloved songs of the past two decades.
The evening began with Nerina Pallot, whose delicate vocals and introspective songwriting created an intimate atmosphere. Tracks like Sophia and Everybody’s Gone to War resonated beautifully in the open-air setting, setting the tone for the night.
James Morrison followed, bringing his soulful voice and easygoing charm to the stage. Morrison joked with the crowd about asking their parents who he was, but his performance quickly reminded everyone why he’s remained a staple of British pop-soul. Hits like Broken Strings, You Give Me Something, and I Won’t Let You Go had the audience singing along, while his heartfelt delivery and warm stage presence made his set a highlight of the evening.
David Gray took the stage in his signature white suit to huge applause, celebrating the 20th anniversary of his iconic White Ladder album. From the opening notes of Babylon, it was clear this was going to be a special performance. Gray’s voice sounded as fresh as ever, and tracks like This Year’s Love and Sail Away transported the audience back to the early 2000s.
In between the White Ladder classics, Gray treated the crowd to newer material and even shared a personal story about his dad meeting David Bowie backstage at Glastonbury. This led into stunning covers of Bowie’s Life on Mars and Oh! You Pretty Things, which were met with rapturous applause. Gray closed the night with Please Forgive Me and Say Hello, Wave Goodbye, leaving the audience in awe of his artistry and storytelling.
